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2009 Construction

Rome wasn't built in a day and neither was Preston Street!

Preston Street is now under construction, but you can still enjoy all that Ottawa’s Little Italy has to offer. Each and every one of Preston Street’s phenomenal restaurants, shops, and services are open for business, and the Preston Street BIA is hard at work to make sure Little Italy is as vibrant and welcoming as ever. Check in with us regularly for up-to-date information, including road closures, detours, and parking information.

Click below to download our summer street map and parking guide. Print it off and use it as your guide to access all your favourite Preston Street businesses during your next visit to Little Italy!

Download our Summer Street Map and Parking Guide!

Why is Preston Street Under Construction?

More than just routine maintenance, the Preston Street revitalization is designed to bring the best of world-class urban living to one of Ottawa’s cultural hubs. This $30-million facelift will capture the unique character and family feel that has made Italian promenades famous around the world.

What’s Happening During the Construction?

• The construction will solve many of Preston Street’s infrastructure needs, as well making as some cosmetic improvements.  The current sewer system, which is more than one hundred years old, will be completely re-built to modern day standards;
• The sidewalks along both sides of the street will be widened, increasing pedestrian space as well as patio space for certain restaurants;
• All new lampposts will be placed along both sides of the street;
• Dozens of new trees will be planted along both sides of the street;
• Large artistic cobblestone ‘Piazzas’ will be permanently paved into the street at Gladstone Avenue and Preston Street, and at Somerset Street and Preston Street;
• C.J. Fleury, a local sculptor and artist will be creating 15 sculptures, entitled “Postcards from the Piazza,” to be displayed throughout the area.

What Parts of Preston Street Will Be Affected?

The construction on Preston Street will take place from Monday, April 20, 2009 to December 2009. Three sections of the street will be affected starting on approximately Monday, May 4, 2009.

Section 1: Preston Street between Carling Avenue and Beech Street

Full road closure, local traffic only;
Pedestrian sidewalks open on both sides of the street.

Section 2: Preston Street between Young Street and Laurel Street

Full road closure, local traffic only;
Pedestrian sidewalks open on both sides of the street.

Section 3: Preston Street between Spruce and Albert Street.

Construction to commence in mid-to-late May;
One lane will remain open;
No street parking will be available during construction;
Pedestrian sidewalks open on both sides of the street.

How Will I Get Around Little Italy During the Construction?

In spite of road closures, getting to your favourite Preston Street hotspots has never been easier. Be on the lookout for Luigi, your guide to getting around Preston Street this summer. Signs featuring Luigi will be all over Little Italy, helping you navigate the construction so you can arrive at your destination quickly and easily. As soon as you spot him, you’ll know you’re on the right track!